A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Nottingham vs. Brussels for Attractions, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Nottingham or Brussels?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Nottingham and Brussels can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Nottingham

Nottingham is a cultural, authentic, and dynamic city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for live music, food, and shopping.

Brussels

Brussels is a multicultural, historic, and cosmopolitan city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Nottingham and Brussels: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Nottingham or Brussels?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Brussels than Nottingham, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Brussels is more popular for its museums, food, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Nottingham is known for its music. Nottingham is popular for its authenticity and local cuisine. Brussels is popular for its beautiful architecture, grand squares, diverse population, and delicious waffles. It is also home to La Grand Place (Grote Markt).

La Grand Place (Grote Markt)

How is Nottingham different from Brussels?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Brussels and Nottingham. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Nottingham or Brussels?

Brussels is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Brussels. Popular sights include Saint-Michel Cathedral, Place Royale, and the Belgian Royal Museum of Fine Arts. The city is filled with impressive architecture, fascinating art museums, and innovative science and technology museums.

Nottingham offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. You'll find history and culture around town. Some of the notable landmarks include Wollaton Hall, the National Justice Museum, Nottingham Castle, and Old Market Square.

Is the Food Better in Nottingham or Brussels? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Brussels is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Brussels makes for a great culinary experience. While the city is most known for its waffles and fries, the diversity of dishes and international restaurant selection continues to grow. There are Lebanese, Japanese, and Indian restaurants among others. Popular local dishes include moules-frites, waterzooi (a stew), and stoemp (made with mashed potatoes and vegetables).

Nottingham has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. You'll find a diversity of restaurants around town that range from local fish and chips shops to international options. Pubs, cafes, and fine dining are all available in town.

Is Nottingham or Brussels Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Nottingham and Brussels.

Nottingham has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Head to the oldest pub in England, Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem, for a pint or check out one of the trendy clubs around town. The city is also a big sports town, so see if there are any sporting events going on while you're visiting.

If you're looking for night time activities Brussels has a few options to choose from. The city's nightlife is quieter and more mellow than some other major cities around Europe. That doesn't mean there aren't plenty of dance clubs and bars where you can hang out. Keep your wits about you after the sun goes down as some areas are a bit rougher than others.

Is Nottingham or Brussels Better for Music?

Nottingham is a good destination for live music. However, Brussels is not a live music destination.

You don't have to look far to find a unique music venue in Nottingham. Many of the best music concerts in the UK make there way to Nottingham. Check out Rock City, which hosts all kinds of concerts.

Brussels is not a live music destination.

Is Nottingham or Brussels Better for its Old Town?

Brussels is well known for its historic old town. However, Nottingham does not have a historic old town.

Brussels is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The old town in the city center is where you'll find the greatest concentration of historic sights. The area is surrounded by tree-lined boulevards and is easy to explore.

Nottingham does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Nottingham or Brussels?

Brussels is very popular for shopping. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Brussels is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. Although it's famous for diamonds, the city also has many shopping streets where you can find designer brands, vintage shops, and other unique boutiques that are fun to explore.

Nottingham is well-known for its shopping. Head to the Lace Market, which is a popular shopping area. You can also wander around the center of town on foot and head to the pedestrian streets that are often lined with independent shops or international chains.

Is Nottingham or Brussels Better for Families?

Brussels is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Brussels is a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has a number of unique kid-friendly activities including a Mini-Europe Museum, a Comic Strip Museum, and Train World. The city is also a chocolate lover's dream with many factories and chocolate shops around town.

Nottingham offers lots of family activities. There are a number of parks and play areas that younger kids will enjoy. You can check out Wheelgate Park, White Post Farm, Rufford Abbey, or Sherwood Pines. Sundown Adventureland is a small theme park that's designed for younger kids under 10. If your kids are into museums, head to the Newark Air Museum.

Is Nottingham or Brussels Better for Couples?

Brussels is well known for romance. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Brussels frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. From beautiful buildings and museums to shopping, dining, and chocolate shops, there are plenty of romantic spots around town. There's a vibrant nightlife scene and many diverse restaurants that couples can enjoy exploring.

Nottingham makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. You'll find the typical date night activities around town like arcades, minigolf, and some interesting restaurants. There are also parks where you can enjoy a stroll in nature.

Is Nottingham or Brussels Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Brussels is well known for backpackers. However, Nottingham is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Brussels. The city has an active nightlife and a number of hostels that are great for backpackers, but do take note that some areas can get a bit rough at night, so make sure you understand where you are.

Nottingham is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Nottingham or Brussels Better for Students?

Brussels is well known for students. However, Nottingham is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Brussels. The city has a number of universities that attract students from around the world. The multicultural setting is great for students of the world.

Nottingham is not popular with students.

Is Nottingham or Brussels Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Brussels is very popular for its public transit. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Brussels has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. Transit options include train, tram, metro, bus, and waterbuses.

Public transit in Nottingham can get you to some places easily. There are buses and trams around town that connect into the rail network. The multi-operator system is organized by the Robin Hood Network.

Is Nottingham or Brussels a more walkable city?

Nottingham and Brussels both are very good when exploring on foot.

Nottingham is very walkable. It is trying to transform itself into a pedestrian-friendly city, and you'll find some areas that are particularly walkable. The city center is very compact and generally walkable.

Brussels is a very walkable city. If you stay in the historical area, it's easy to walk around and many boulevards are being converted to pedestrian areas.

For even more information, also check out Is Nottingham Worth Visiting? and Is Brussels Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Brussels or Nottingham?

How long in Nottingham or Brussels?

In either Nottingham or Brussels, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Brussels than Nottingham because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Nottingham, and 1-5 days is enough time in Brussels.

Families should spend more time in Brussels than Nottingham. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Brussels, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Brussels than Nottingham. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Brussels that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Brussels than Nottingham if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Brussels.

One day in Nottingham or Brussels?

The city of Nottingham offers museums and nightlife. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

When visiting Brussels, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the shopping. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Brussels, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Nottingham or Brussels?

Nottingham is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Nottingham, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

When visiting Brussels, people usually allow for lots of time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the shopping. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Nottingham or Brussels?

Nottingham is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Brussels, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Visiting the old town is also a must. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Nottingham or Brussels?

Nottingham is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Brussels is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the shopping. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Day Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Bicycle Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Cultural Tours in Belgium, and The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium.

When comparing the travel costs between Nottingham and Brussels, we can see that Brussels is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Nottingham Expensive? and Is Brussels Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Nottingham or Brussels?

Brussels has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Nottingham. When comparing the sizes of Nottingham and Brussels, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Nottingham or Brussels?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Nottingham or Brussels in the Summer?

Both Brussels and Nottingham are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Nottingham this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Brussels for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Nottingham is cooler than Brussels in the summer. The daily temperature in Nottingham averages around 16°C (62°F) in July, and Brussels fluctuates around 18°C (65°F).

Nottingham usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Brussels during summer. Nottingham gets 196 hours of sunny skies, while Brussels receives 186 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Nottingham usually receives less rain than Brussels. Nottingham gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Nottingham or Brussels in the Autumn?

Both Brussels and Nottingham during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Nottingham for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Also, many visitors come to Brussels in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Nottingham is around the same temperature as Brussels. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Nottingham in October average around 11°C (52°F), and Brussels averages at about 12°C (54°F).

In the autumn, Nottingham often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Brussels. Nottingham gets 112 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brussels receives 114 hours of full sun.

Nottingham usually gets less rain in October than Brussels. Nottingham gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nottingham or Brussels in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Nottingham and Brussels. Many visitors come to Nottingham in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Brussels for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Brussels can be very cold during winter. Nottingham can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Nottingham is generally a little warmer than Brussels. Daily temperatures in Nottingham average around 4°C (39°F), and Brussels fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

Nottingham usually receives more sunshine than Brussels during winter. Nottingham gets 61 hours of sunny skies, while Brussels receives 49 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Nottingham usually receives less rain than Brussels. Nottingham gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Nottingham or Brussels in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Nottingham as well as Brussels. Most visitors come to Nottingham for the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Brussels because of the activities around the city.

Nottingham is cooler than Brussels in the spring. The daily temperature in Nottingham averages around 8°C (46°F) in April, and Brussels fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

In the spring, Nottingham often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Brussels. Nottingham gets 151 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brussels receives 147 hours of full sun.

Nottingham usually gets less rain in April than Brussels. Nottingham gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Brussels and Nottingham